It only seems fitting that Anaheim Ducks were served a cold-dose of reality. After having ripped the heart out of the Dallas Stars and their fans, they themselves had their hearts ripped out by a cold-blooded group in Los Angeles.
The Ducks led 2-1 leading into the final seconds of game one, thanks to Teemu Selanne, but as we have seen far too many times this playoff season...a one-goal lead is never safe.
Marian Gaborik scored with seven seconds left in regulation to force overtime, and then duplicated the feat in the extra period to hand the Kings to a 3-2 victory Saturday night.
With the Kings managing to tie the game at two goals apiece in the waning moments it was only proper they should win...throughout these playoffs, the team that scores the late equalizer has come back to win the game in overtime.
I'm not going to recap the game. The Kings grabbed home ice away fro the Ducks with hard work and a bit of luck.
Anaheim had their chances and it just didn't work out. Once again the Ducks struggled with the man-advantage by going 0 for 4, while the Kings were 1 of 4. The Ducks hit posts, missed nets and Jonathan Quick was outstanding.
That said, the Ducks aren't making any excuses. We all expect this series to be tight and the first team to flinch will find themselves home in a heartbeat.
I thought the Ducks did a good job with their possession game, especially after falling behind 1-0. Anaheim had some issues with turnovers with all three Kings comes coming off gaffs. Bryan Allen had a rough night. He the goal on Gaborik's tying goal. He should probably not been out there in that situation.
One of several questionable coaching decisions by Bruce Boudreau.
The one that I'm still scratching my head over was Bruce's decision to call a timeout after the Kings used theirs. I understand why he did it, I just thought the timing was odd and gave some gassed L.A. players a little extra time to rest. Next thing I know the game is tied.
I thought Jonas Hiller played great and matched Quick's heroics on several occasions. That save on Justin Williams late was a beauty.
The game was very evenly played. The Ducks had several chances to win the game in regulation and in overtime. This series is far from over but you get a sense that a win for L.A. tonight and this one could be out or reach for Anaheim.
The Ducks need to put game one behind them. If they can't salvage a split at home they are in serious trouble. And for the love of the maker can the power play please show up tonight?
Thanks for reading!